Defence Industry Security Program (DISP)

DISP is a multi-level membership-based program. It's underpinned by the Defence Security Principles Framework (DSPF), Principle 16, Defence Industry Security, Control 16.1, Defence Industry Security Program.

WorkSec & DISP

WorkSec is proud to be a Defence Industry Security Program (DISP) member, accredited at Level 3 in both Governance and Personnel Security (PERSEC). This represents the highest level of DISP membership and demonstrates our commitment to safeguarding Defence information, assets, and people. As a Level 3 member, we are trusted to operate at the TOP SECRET classification across governance and personnel domains, meeting stringent requirements set out in the Defence Security Principles Framework (DSPF).

This accreditation enables us to not only maintain robust internal security practices but also sponsor and manage security clearances for individuals, contractors, and corporate clients up to NV2 level. Through our specialist team of Security Officers and Advisors, we ensure compliance with DISP obligations, support Defence and industry partners, and strengthen Australia’s sovereign capability with a Trusted Workforce.

About DISP

Overview

The Defence Industry Security Program (DISP) is a multi-level membership framework designed to safeguard Australia’s Defence people, information, and assets. It helps Australian entities understand, manage, and meet their security obligations when engaging with Defence tenders, contracts, and projects.

As a DISP member, WorkSec contributes to strengthening national security by maintaining robust governance, personnel, and compliance frameworks, ensuring our clients can confidently operate within Defence supply chains.

Purpose of DISP

DISP exists to:

  • Ensure industry partners have the right security in place for Defence contracts.
  • Provide access to expert security advice and support services.
  • Help organisations identify, manage, and minimise security risks.
  • Assure Defence and Government that DISP members meet trusted standards of security.

Membership Levels

DISP membership is structured across four levels aligned to the Australian Government security classifications:

  • Entry Level – OFFICIAL and OFFICIAL: Sensitive
  • Level 1 – PROTECTED
  • Level 2 – SECRET
  • Level 3 – TOP SECRET

Membership applies across four security domains:

  • Governance
  • Personnel security
  • Physical security
  • ICT and cyber security

WorkSec is accredited at Level 3 Governance and Personnel Security, the highest standard of DISP membership.

Benefits of DISP Membership

Becoming a DISP member provides significant advantages, including:

  • Defence readiness: Access to security services and resources tailored for Defence engagement.
  • Security clearance sponsorship: Sponsor personnel up to NV2 clearance levels (Levels 1–3 membership only).
  • Training and awareness: Access to security training, briefings, and cyber security guidance.
  • Access to information: Receive the latest updates, insights, and support from Defence.
  • International recognition: Security clearances may be recognised by certain partner nations under Security of Information Agreements.
  • Enhanced reputation: Demonstrates a proven commitment to protecting Defence information, assets, and people.

Costs and Responsibilities

While there is no membership fee, organisations must invest in implementing and maintaining security measures such as:

  • Security governance frameworks and documentation.
  • Personnel security clearances.
  • ICT and cyber security protections (including compliance with the Essential Eight at Maturity Level 2).
  • Ongoing compliance reporting and audits.

DISP members are also responsible for:

  • Appointing a Chief Security Officer (CSO) and Security Officer (SO).
  • Submitting Annual Security Reports.
  • Reporting changes in circumstance, such as foreign ownership, control or influence (FOCI).
  • Maintaining incident registers, DSAP registers, and training programs for staff.

Maintaining Membership

Once approved, DISP membership must be actively maintained. This includes:

  • Completing annual self-assessments and submitting the Annual Security Report.
  • Undergoing Ongoing Suitability Assessments (OSA) and, if required, Deep Dive Audits.
  • Participating in assurance and uplift activities to continuously strengthen security posture.
  • Updating Defence on any changes in ownership, personnel, contracts, or cyber security posture.

Why it Matters

By holding DISP Level 3 Governance and Personnel Security accreditation, WorkSec demonstrates the highest level of compliance and trust in managing sensitive Defence information and people.

This enables us to:

  • Sponsor clearances at Baseline, NV1, and NV2 levels.
  • Deliver Security Officer as a Service (SOaaS) to clients who lack in-house resourcing.
  • Provide expert security governance, assurance, and compliance support.
  • Strengthen Australia’s sovereign capability through a Trusted Workforce.

Other Memberships

Our memberships with leading Defence, cyber, and industry bodies reflect our commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement.

Defence Industry Security Program (DISP)

DISP is a multi-level membership-based program. It's underpinned by the Defence Security Principles Framework (DSPF), Principle 16, Defence Industry Security, Control 16.1, Defence Industry Security Program.

Australian Industry & Defence Network (AIDN)

The premier network supporting Australia's defence SMEs through advocacy, networking, and essential industry resources.

Defence Teaming Centre (DTC)

Defence Teaming Centre (DTC) is a nationally focused Defence industry membership organisation that supports and develops Australian industry to be more competitive and meets the needs of Defence.

ASIO Outreach

WorkSec engages with ASIO’s Outreach program to strengthen protective security awareness, education and capability across government and industry.

Australian Cyber Collaboration Centre

The Australian Cyber Collaboration Centre brings together industry, government and academia to build Australia’s cyber resilience through collaboration, training, and innovation.

Australian Insider Risk Centre of Excellence (AIR CoE)

The Australian Insider Risk Centre of Excellence (AIR CoE) addresses insider threats through research, training and collaboration.

Australian Signals Directorate (ASD)

The Australian Signals Directorate’s Cyber Security Partnership Program enables collaboration between government, industry and academia to strengthen Australia’s cyber resilience.

Henderson Alliance

Henderson Alliance is a collaborative network of Australian defence and maritime industry businesses working together to strengthen local capability, competitiveness and opportunities within the defence sector.

JOSCAR Australia

WorkSec is a registered supplier on JOSCAR-AU, streamlining assurance and visibility across Australia’s defence supply chain.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you’re an individual seeking security clearance sponsorship or an organisation needing personnel security governance, reach out to WorkSec today to take the next step in securing your future.

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